How to Cope with Anxiety About the Possibility of Being Laid Off

You're sitting at your desk, minding your business, when your boss emails or calls you into their office. Your heart starts pounding, and your palms get sweaty all over again. The anxiety is a feeling you dread so much it almost makes you wish they'd just rip off the bandaid and let you go already. Each time this happens lately, you think you know what's coming: the dreaded "L" word. 

Getting laid off is a fear many people have, and with the economic uncertainty brought on by the pandemic, that fear has become more real. If you're feeling anxious about the possibility of being laid off, you're not alone. 

Here are some practical steps to manage your anxiety and feel more in control. 

1. Acknowledge your feelings

Often our reaction to triggering situations like potential job loss is to push away or ignore our anxious feelings, but bottling up your emotions won't help you find relief. Instead, acknowledge your feelings and permit yourself to feel them without judgment. Remember, it's okay to feel anxious and scared about the possibility of losing your job. 

2. Focus on what you can control

When faced with uncertainty, it's natural to feel powerless. But there are always things you can control, even in uncertain times. Focusing on what you can control can help you feel less helpless and more empowered. For example, this might be a good time to brainstorm new possibilities, update your resume, network with colleagues, and prepare for potential interviews.

3. Create a financial plan

Money matters can be a significant source of stress when facing potential job loss. Creating a financial plan can ease some of that stress. This could include creating a budget, looking for ways to reduce expenses, and building an emergency fund. Whatever this looks like for you, having a plan can help you feel more prepared and in control. 

4. Take care of yourself 

Anxiety can feel overwhelming, but caring for yourself can make a big difference. You can prioritize self-care by getting enough restful sleep, staying active through regular exercise, and nourishing your body with healthy foods. Additionally, participating in activities that bring you joy is a crucial reminder that your job isn't the only thing in life that matters. The more you regularly fuel your happiness, the easier it may be to form healthy perspectives and mindsets when needed, such as believing everything will work out.

These self-care practices can alleviate financial and work-related stress and improve your overall well-being. Moreover, self-care can put you in a calmer, more confident state of mind to prepare for the possibility of being laid off, even if nothing comes of it. 

5. Seek support 

It's crucial to remember that you don't have to tackle anxiety alone. Reaching out for support and connecting with others can also bring a sense of validation and comfort during challenging times. Consider confiding in trusted friends or family members or seeking the guidance of a therapist who can provide a listening ear and helpful advice.

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy can be a helpful resource for coping with anxiety about the possibility of being laid off. A therapist can offer a safe and supportive space to explore your fears and emotions and help you develop coping strategies for anxiety that work for you. They can also provide guidance and support as you navigate potential job loss and career transitions.

So if you're feeling anxious about being laid off, remember that it's normal to feel stressed and worried about your job security. But with acceptance, support, and a healthy dose of practical steps, you can manage your worries and regain control.

Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as legal, financial, or medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional advice of your own attorney, accountant, physician, or financial advisor. Always check with your own physician, attorney, financial advisor, accountant, or other business or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.